Step-by-step guide to transferring between Paris main line train stations: Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, Gare de l'Est, and Gare Montparnasse via Metro, RER, and Taxi.
Paris does not have a single central railway station. Instead, six major terminus stations surround the city: Gare du Nord (Eurostar, UK, Belgium, Netherlands), Gare de Lyon (TGV to South of France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain), Gare de l'Est (ICE/TGV to Germany, Strasbourg), Gare Montparnasse (TGV to West/Southwest France), Gare d'Austerlitz, and Gare St Lazare.
The fastest way to transfer between Gare du Nord (Eurostar arrival) and Gare de Lyon (TGV departure for Southern Europe) is taking RER Line D (towards Melun / Malesherbes). It takes just 2 stops and 10 minutes train time. Allow at least 60-70 minutes total transfer time between connecting trains.
Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est are located only 500 meters apart. You do not need to take the Metro! Exit Gare du Nord onto Rue de Dunkerque, turn right onto Boulevard de Denain, and walk 7 minutes down Rue d'Alsace directly into Gare de l'Est.
To transfer from Gare du Nord to Gare Montparnasse (trains to Bordeaux, Rennes, Loire Valley), take Metro Line 4 direct (direction Mairie de Montrouge) for 15 stops (around 25 minutes). Allow at least 75-90 minutes total transfer window.
RER Line D takes 10 minutes between stations. With walking through concourses and purchasing Metro/RER tickets, allow at least 60 minutes between connecting train arrivals and departures.
Yes. Gare de l'Est is a 7-minute flat walk (500m) from Gare du Nord via Rue d'Alsace. There is no need to buy a Metro ticket.
No. You must purchase a Paris Metro/RER ticket (t+ ticket) at station vending machines using contactless card, euro cash, or Navigo Easy pass.
Taxis are available outside all Paris stations at official taxi ranks. A taxi from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon costs around €15–€25 depending on traffic and takes 20-30 minutes.